Care guide
Caring for solid hardwood, the simple way
Molly · May 12, 2026 · 5 min read
People ask Dad what special oil they should buy for their new table. He usually laughs and says, "A coaster." Solid hardwood with a good finish is not fussy — it wants a stable home and a light touch, not a chemistry set.
The everyday routine
- Dust with a soft, dry or barely-damp cloth, going with the grain.
- Wipe spills as they happen — our finishes shrug off water, but standing puddles are nobody’s friend.
- Skip the spray polish. Silicone builds up and dulls the finish over time.
Keep the room boring
Wood moves with humidity — that is not a flaw, it is the material being honest. Aim for a steady 35–45% relative humidity and keep pieces out of direct afternoon sun and away from heat vents. A room humidifier in a dry winter does more for your furniture than any product on a shelf.
If it’s Billt right, the only maintenance is enjoying it.
Every few years
A hand-rubbed topcoat can be refreshed at home with a wax or oil finish — we’ll tell you exactly which one your piece has. That is the whole point of solid wood: it can be renewed, not thrown away.
Written by Molly
I run the website and write most of what you read here. Got a question about your room or a piece? Just ask — I read every message.
